Establishing simple, healthy habits in children today can make a dramatic difference in their long-term health and well-being. How to start? With the dozens of practical tips in
Dr. Jen’s new book,
'Good Kids, Bad Habits,' and at the Parenting Center on
RealAge.com. As you’ll see, the results are measurable:
Fill ’er Up: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Kids who keep eating it throughout adulthood will feel 39 when they turn 40.
Props for Fido: Dogs are both man’s and kids’ best friend; thanks to daily dog-walking and tugs of war. Children who keep furry friends through adulthood can make their RealAge younger by 1 year.
Something Fishy: Kids who develop a taste for seafood early tend to keep it on the menu for life. If they do, their RealAge could be 37 when they’re turning 40.
Stay Connected: Bonding with grandparents, uncles, and other relatives builds self-esteem and lowers the risk of depression. Over the years, close family ties can take off almost four years. Imagine that, being 40, but feeling 36.
Friendly Fiber: Kids who get into a fiber habit and stay with it -- eating lots of fruits, veggies, and whole grains – should feel barely 29 when they’re actually 32.
Knowing and Growing: A childhood appreciation for learning that continues into adulthood can help people feel more like 37 on their 40th birthday.
Be Sun Shy: Kids who get in the habit of sun protection now are likely to stick with it as an adult. If they do, their RealAge could be 29 when they’re really 32.
Find more tips at
GoodKidsBadHabits.com or
RealAge.com, where you can also take the Healthy Kids Test and Parenting Style Quiz.
Reprinted with permission by RealAge, Inc. Copyright (c) 2005. All rights reserved. RealAge is a U.S. federally registered trademark of RealAge, Inc. Republication or redistribution of RealAge content is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of RealAge. RealAge shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon.